Cost of Living by State US
Explore Cost of Living Across the United States
Compare overall price levels across the U.S.
Hover over a state or tap one to see its cost-of-living index.
BEA data and methodology | State data table via FRED
Cost of Living in the USA - A Practical Guide to Choosing Where to Live and Work
Moving to another state can open up exciting career opportunities, but a higher salary doesn’t always mean more money in your pocket. Housing, taxes, healthcare, transport and everyday expenses can all influence how far your income goes.
Understanding the cost of living can help you compare locations, budget for a move and decide whether a new opportunity makes financial sense.
For veterinarians considering a new role, there’s more to consider than salary alone. The cost of relocation, professional licensing, employee benefits and the lifestyle a location offers can all affect the overall value of a job offer.
Our guide explains the main costs to consider, where to find reliable information and what to check before committing to a move.
Understanding the cost of living index
The cost of living varies significantly across the United States. Our map uses Regional Price Parities (RPPs) from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) to compare overall price levels between states.
The national average is set at 100.
An index of 90 means overall prices are approximately 10% below the national average
An index of 100 represents the national average
An index of 110 means overall prices are approximately 10% above the national average
The index includes housing rents, goods and services. It provides a useful starting point for comparing locations, however it doesn’t measure every expensive or tell you exactly how much you’ll need to earn.
State averages can also hide substantial differences between cities and rural communities. Before accepting a job, compare the cost of living in the specific area where you’d be working.
Cost of Living by State
Compare the cost of living across all 50 U.S. states using Regional Price Parities from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. See how local price levels compare with the national average when evaluating veterinary salaries and career opportunities.
| State | Cost of Living Index | Difference from U.S. Average | Price Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 88.8 | -11.2% | Below average |
| Alaska | 102.4 | +2.4% | Above average |
| Arizona | 100.7 | +0.7% | Above average |
| Arkansas | 86.9 | -13.1% | Below average |
| California | 110.7 | +10.7% | Above average |
| Colorado | 103.1 | +3.1% | Above average |
| Connecticut | 103.6 | +3.6% | Above average |
| Delaware | 99.8 | -0.2% | Below average |
| Florida | 103.4 | +3.4% | Above average |
| Georgia | 96.3 | -3.7% | Below average |
| Hawaii | 110.0 | +10.0% | Above average |
| Idaho | 95.5 | -4.5% | Below average |
| Illinois | 100.0 | 0.0% | National average |
| Indiana | 93.3 | -6.7% | Below average |
| Iowa | 87.8 | -12.2% | Below average |
| Kansas | 90.1 | -9.9% | Below average |
| Kentucky | 90.2 | -9.8% | Below average |
| Louisiana | 88.2 | -11.8% | Below average |
| Maine | 97.1 | -2.9% | Below average |
| Maryland | 105.0 | +5.0% | Above average |
| Massachusetts | 105.8 | +5.8% | Above average |
| Michigan | 96.2 | -3.8% | Below average |
| Minnesota | 98.6 | -1.4% | Below average |
| Mississippi | 87.0 | -13.0% | Below average |
| Missouri | 90.8 | -9.2% | Below average |
| Montana | 94.6 | -5.4% | Below average |
| Nebraska | 90.1 | -9.9% | Below average |
| Nevada | 100.0 | 0.0% | National average |
| New Hampshire | 104.2 | +4.2% | Above average |
| New Jersey | 108.8 | +8.8% | Above average |
| New Mexico | 92.2 | -7.8% | Below average |
| New York | 107.9 | +7.9% | Above average |
| North Carolina | 94.3 | -5.7% | Below average |
| North Dakota | 89.0 | -11.0% | Below average |
| Ohio | 92.8 | -7.2% | Below average |
| Oklahoma | 87.8 | -12.2% | Below average |
| Oregon | 103.4 | +3.4% | Above average |
| Pennsylvania | 97.6 | -2.4% | Below average |
| Rhode Island | 102.3 | +2.3% | Above average |
| South Carolina | 93.7 | -6.3% | Below average |
| South Dakota | 88.6 | -11.4% | Below average |
| Tennessee | 91.9 | -8.1% | Below average |
| Texas | 97.1 | -2.9% | Below average |
| Utah | 98.9 | -1.1% | Below average |
| Vermont | 98.0 | -2.0% | Below average |
| Virginia | 101.1 | +1.1% | Above average |
| Washington | 107.0 | +7.0% | Above average |
| West Virginia | 89.5 | -10.5% | Below average |
| Wisconsin | 94.1 | -5.9% | Below average |
| Wyoming | 92.7 | -7.3% | Below average |
Housing, Utilities and Everyday Expenses
Housing is often one of the biggest factors influencing the cost of living. Rent and property prices can differ considerable between states, cities and even neighbouring communities.
When comparing locations, consider:
Housing: monthly rent or mortgage payments, deposits, property taxes where applicable, and homeowners or renters insurance
Utilities: electricity, natural gas, water, sewerage, rubbish collection and internet
Groceries: the cost of your usual weekly shop and household essentials
Home maintenance: repairs, upkeep and any additional costs associated with the type of property you choose
Don’t assume that a state with a below-average cost of living index will be affordable everywhere. A popular city with a lower-cost state may still have expensive housing.
Useful resource: BEA Regional Price Parities - compare regional price levels and explore the underlying data.
Taxes: Understanding Your Take-Home Pay
Your salary is only part of the financial picture. The taxes you pay can affect how much income remains available for housing, savings and everyday spending.
In the US, it’s worth understanding three levels of income tax:
Federal income tax: applies nationally, with the amount depending on your taxable income and circumstances
State income tax: varies by state. Some states have no broad-based individual income tax, while others apply graduates or flat rates
Local income tax: certain cities, counties and other local jurisdictions levy additional income taxes
Sales taxes can also affect everyday purchases, while property taxes may be relevant if you own a home. Your actual tax bill depends on more than the state you live in. Filling status, household income, deductions and the local tax rules all matter.
When comparing two job offers, estimate your take-home pay using the same assumptions for each location. This gives you a more meaningful comparison than looking at gross salary alone.
Useful resource: IRS federal income tax rates and brackets
Transport and the Cost of Your Daily Routine
Transport costs can make a meaningful difference to your monthly budget, particularly in areas where driving is essential.
Consider the cost of:
Car payments, fuel, and vehicle insurance
Vehicle registration and maintenance
Parking, toll roads and commuting expenses
Public transport
The distance between your home, workplace and essential services
A home outside a city might offer more space or lower rent, but a longer commute can increase fuel costs and reduce the time you have outside work.
For veterinarians, it is worth checking the actual commute to the hospital rather than estimating from a city centre. If a role involves a multiple practices, emergency cover or travel between locations, clarity what travel is expected and whether any expenses are reimbursed.
Health Insurance and Employment Benefits
Healthcare deserves particular attention when comparing US employment opportunities. Health insurance arrangements and employee contributions can vary significantly between employers.
When reviewing a benefits package, check:
Monthly premiums: how much is deducted from your pay for individual coverage?
Family coverage: what would it cost to insure a spouse or dependants?
Deductibles: how much might you need to pay before your insurance starts covering certain services?
Out-of-pocket maximums: what is the maximum you could pay for covered, in-network care in a plan year? CHECK WHAT THIS MEANS
Dental and visions: are these included or offered separately?
Employer contributions: how much does the employer pay towards premiums and other benefits?
Also consider paid leave, retirement contributions, continuing education allowances, and professional liability coverage where applicable.
When comparing veterinary employers, look at the cost of the package to you, not simply whether benefits are advertises as included. Two employers offering the same salary may leave you with very different household expenses.
Lifestyle, Location and Climate
Cost of living isn’t only about bills. Where you live influences your daily routine, the activities available to you and the lifestyle your income can support.
A major city may offer restaurants, entertainment and convenient access to amenities, but housing and parking can be expensive. A seller town or rural community may offer more space and a different pace of life, while requiring more driving for work, shopping and healthcare.
Climate can also affect your budget.
Hot climates: air-conditioning can increase electricity bills, particularly during prolonged heat
Cold climates: heating, winter clothing and vehicle preparation can add to seasonal expenses
Areas exposed to severe weather: insurance premiums, deductibles and property maintenance may need closer consideration
Think about what matters most to you. A lower cost-location isn’t necessarily the right choice if it doesn’t suit your lifestyle, family needs or long-term plans.
Professional Costs When Moving States
For veterinarians, moving states may involve professional requirements as well as the usual costs of relocating.
Before accepting a position, check:
The initial veterinary license application fee
Examination, verification or documentation fees, if applicable. CHECK THIS
License renewal costs and continuing education requirements
Professional liability insurance arrangement
Whether the employer reimburses licensing or relocation expenses
Requirements and fees differ between states, so confirm the current rules directly with the relevant state veterinary licensing board.
If you’re relocating for a new role, ask the employer which expenses it will cover and whether reimbursement is conditional on remaining employed for a specific period.
Useful resource: American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) - a starting point for information about veterinary licensure and state board requirements.
Relocation Costs:
What to Budget Before Accepting a Job
The cost of moving can be substantial, particularly if you’re moving across the country or need to secure housing before your first payday.
Your budget may need to include:
Moving company fees, transport and storage
Travel and temporary accommodation
Rental deposits and initial housing costs
Utility connections, household essentials and furniture
Time away from work during the move
If an employer offers relocation assistance or sign-on bonus, confirm the amount, payment date and any repayment conditions. A bonus that must be repaid if you leave within a specified period shouldn’t be treated as money you can spend without restriction.
Check that the job is right for you, too…
Before committing to a move, consider visiting the area and the hospital if practical. A visit can help you assess the commute, housing options, workplace environment and whether the role matches your expectations.
If you’re invited to a trial shift or working interview, clarify in advance whether it is paid, what activities you’ll undertake and whether travel or accommodation expenses are covered. Make sure any clinical work is appropriately authorised and insured.
For a major relocation, a little preparation ca help you avoid committing to an expensive move that doesn’t suit your circumstances.
Useful Tools for Comparing Locations
These resources can help you turn a general comparison into a realistic household budget.
Regional Price Parities - Compare overall price levels across states and metropolitan areas
MIT Living Wage Calculator - Estimate the income needed to cover basic expense for different household types and locations
Federal income tax information - Understand federal income tax brackets and how taxable income is treated
Veterinary licensing - Find resources for checking professional licensing requirements when moving to another state
Before Accepting a Veterinary Job in Another State
Use this checklist to compare the practical and financial implications of a move.
Compare housing and everyday expenses in the specific town or city
Estimate take-home pay after applicable taxes
Calculate commuting, vehicle and transport costs
Check employee health insurance premiums and family coverage
Confirm licensing, renewal and continuing education costs
Ask about relocation support and any repayment conditions
Review the employment agreement, including restrictive covenants
Consider the workplace, schedule, support and lifestyle before committing
Find the right veterinary opportunity with Aurora
The cost of living is one part of deciding whether a new role is right for you. Salary, benefits, working conditions, professional development and the team you’ll be joining all matter, too.
Aurora Search Consultants help veterinarians explore career opportunities across the entire U.S. Our recruitment service is entirely free for veterinary candidates, and we can help you understand the full details of an opportunity before deciding whether to take the next step.
Considering a move? Explore our veterinarian jobs to see the latest opportunities across the United States.